CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR DECISION TO

STUDY ABROAD!

We, at The Study Abroad Office, are committed and excited to

work with you to make your experience abroad as culturally
enriching and academically meaningful as possible. This
handbook contains important information that will assist you as
you study abroad.
We look forward to working with you throughout your study
abroad experience!
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

BEFORE YOU GO 1

Preparation……………………….………………………………………………… 2
Documents & Insurance…………………………………………………………… 6

WHILE ABROAD 8

Adjustment…………………………………………………………………………. 9
Life Abroad…………………………………………………………………………. 11
Personal Finances…………………………………………………………………. 18
Travel While Abroad……………………………………………………………… 22

AFTER YOU RETURN 24

Re-Entry!..................................................................................................... 25
BEFORE YOU GO

You are on your way to another

country. Why? Because you are
adventurous and want new expe-
riences! Expect things to be dif-
ferent, because they will be.
This is why study abroad is such
an exciting time. This chapter
will address important things to
consider prior to your depar-
ture.

1
PREPARATION

Research
Before you go abroad, learn as much about the country
and city where you are going. Spend time talking with
people from your host country and/or TTU students who
have studied there. They are your best sources of infor-
mation. Ask about classes, weather, food, customs, tradi-
tions, similarities, and differences. Try to learn greetings
and other phrases in the native language. Check the
weather patterns, so you will know what to pack. Expect
the weather to be significantly different from Cookeville.
If you know someone who has studied or lived in the coun-
try, seek them out or check with the Study Abroad Staff for
a list of possible contacts.
It might also be beneficial to perform an Internet search
on the country and city where you will be staying.

2
Read about world news online, particu-
larly news about your host country. Poli-
tics are often a topic of conversation in
most countries, and you will want to be
prepared to participate. Likewise, it is im-
portant that you are equally as informed
about your home country. Be sure to know
the basics of US government, particularly
as it relates to your host country.
Academics
Universities outside the US usually expect
students to be much more independent
and involved in the educational process.
The bulk of the learning process takes
place outside the classroom through read-
ing, research and writing. Your final
grade for a course may be based entirely
on a comprehensive final exam with oral
and written components or on a final pa-
per. This system requires much more self-
discipline.
Prior to leaving TTU, you should complete
the Study Abroad Transfer Credit Form
found in your Study Abroad Application.
Students from TTU going abroad long-
term (semester/full year) are required to
take at least the equivalent of 12 credits.
You will also be registering for an enroll-
ment status placeholder course at TTU. If
you are on an exchange program, you will
be charged the normal TTU fees and tui-
tion (ISEP also includes room and board).
If you are on a direct program, you will
still register for the course, but you will be
responsible for paying all fees associated
with the program. Actual registration for
courses abroad may take place before or
after arrival at the location, depending on
the program.
Tip: Take your academic adviser’s email
address and phone number with you in case
you need to change classes or have prob-
lems with registration when you prepare to
return.
Upon completion of your program, you
must request that your transcript be sent
to the Study Abroad Office at TTU.
Transfer Credit- Upon return, when we re-
ceive your transcript we will process it ac-
cording to the TTU policies. The letter
grade you get for each class will be con-
verted into US letter grades initially. Then
we make sure the classes you took abroad
match the ones you put on the Transfer
Credit form. Then we send it to the Inter-
national Education office for scanning to
your Eagle Online, then it is passed to the
Graduation Office for the actual posting of
grades. On your TTU transcript you will
see the letter T(transfer) in front of each
grade so it would be a TA, TB, TC, etc. The
GPA for these classes are calculated into
the Inclusive Combined GPA which is ex-
plained on this website:
https://www.tntech.edu/em/academic-
services/gpa-faq
You are strongly encouraged to return
from abroad with course materials that
document the content covered (e.g., syl-
labi, list of reading materials, papers, ex-
ams, etc.) This will facilitate the awarding
of the appropriate transfer credit, should
anything be questioned.
In order to register at TTU for the semester
following your return to the US, you will
need to consult your advisor via email to
get advised for the appropriate courses
and obtain your Alternate PIN Code. Then,
you will go on to Eagle Online and com-
plete the registration process.
3
Financial Aid
If you normally receive financial aid at
TTU, you may apply most aid to the cost of
an approved study abroad program. All
federal financial aid can be utilized on ap-
proved programs, but check with the
Study Abroad Staff about other types of
aid. If you are on the UAS scholarship, you
will be assigned a project to promote
study abroad programs instead of the 75
service hours. You must also consult with
the UAS coordinator to make the arrange-
ments.
You must also plan a meeting with the Fi-
nancial. Aid Staff to inform them of your
plans to go abroad and to fill out addi-
tional paperwork.
Tip: There are many external scholarships
available for studying abroad.
Flight Arrangements
Most programs require you to make your
own flight arrangements. The Study
Abroad Staff can make recommendations
on good websites to search for flights.
Normally students look for flights on the
search engines, then when they find the
best flight, they go to the actual airline
website to book it. In order to get the best
price on a ticket, begin working on this
process as soon as possible.
Be sure to fill out the Study Abroad Appli-
cation packet including the direct deposit
form completely in your study abroad ap-
plication packet so that there will be no
delay in getting your reimbursement. Af-
ter booking your airfare ticket online,
please email your ticket to the Study
Abroad Office
(studyabroad@tntech.edu).Your reim-
bursement can be processed within ap-
proximately 3 weeks as long as your ap-
plication packet is complete.
4
Packing Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
(STEP)
There are many packing lists and travel
guides available online, but the best idea TTU requires all students and faculty go-
is to talk with someone familiar with the ing abroad to enroll in The Smart Traveler
country. Often, they can tell you what they Enrollment Program (STEP). It is a free
packed and did not need. service provided by the US Department of
State to US citizens who are traveling to, or
Tip: Pack one week before you leave and
living in, a foreign country. STEP allows
carry all of your luggage up a flight of
you to enter information about your up-
stairs. If you have trouble doing that, you
coming trip abroad so that the Depart-
are taking too much. You will be jumping
ment of State can better assist you in case
on and off trains and going up and down
of an emergency. STEP also allows Amer-
stairs on a regular basis while you are
icans residing abroad to get information
abroad so you will have a much easier time
routinely from the nearest US embassy or
with less luggage.
consulate, including travel warnings,
In terms of clothing, the best items are travel alerts and other information for a
lightweight, washable and layer-able. particular country.
Limit your clothing and be creative. Think
Below is the link to create an account and
in terms of being able to combine clothing
register your trip.
in such a way that allows you to dress up
or down for the occasion. Check the step.state.gov/STEP/Index.aspx
weather patterns abroad also.
Pack enough medicine for the duration of
the entire trip in your carry-on luggage.
For prescription medicine, keep it in the
original bottle and carry a copy of the pre-
scription and/or a letter from your doctor.
Take small amounts of personal care
items, unless you have a favorite item you
cannot live without. Personal care items
are sold in other countries, but some
brands may be different. It is possible to
carry these items in larger quantities in
your checked luggage.
Tip: Do not pack the following in your
checked luggage: passport, student ID
card, electronics credit/debit cards and
cash. Keep these in your carry-on.

5
DOCUMENTS
& INSURANCE
Passport

A valid passport is required for you to enter and leave your

home and host countries. If you already have one, make sure it
will not expire until 6 months after the end date of your pro-
gram. In many cases, this is a requirement.
Scan, email and make photocopies of the identification page of
your passport along with other essential ID cards or docu-
ments, and keep a record of your passport number. Carry the
original passport with you at all times, have one copy in your
checked luggage, turn in one copy to the Study Abroad Office
at TTU, and leave one copy at home with your family. If your
passport gets lost or stolen, it is much easier to get a replace-
ment if you have a photocopy.
If you do not have a passport, apply for one immediately.
Please see the US Department of State website below for infor-
mation about how to apply for a passport.
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html

6
Visa/Residence Permit https://travel.state.gov/content/pass-
ports/en/country.html
Nearly every country in the world requires
that foreign visitors obtain a visa before www.visahq.com
entering the country. A visa is often a
Insurance
stamp on a passport page that signifies an
agreement on conditions of entry. In some TTU requires that you have appropriate
cases, stays of more than 3 months (90 health insurance coverage abroad which
days) require that you obtain a residence includes medical evacuation and repatria-
permit. tion benefits. Some programs include the
insurance cost in the program fee. If your
As a student, it is your responsibility to find
program does not include insurance, it is
out what documents you are required to
required that you carefully check your cur-
submit to the embassy or consulate and to
rent health insurance policy for information
follow all necessary steps to obtain the ap-
on benefits. The Study Abroad Office will
propriate visa or residence permit. Allow
be checking your insurance coverage be-
adequate time to obtain a visa prior to trav-
fore you go abroad, and can make recom-
eling abroad. Depending on your country
mendations on any additional coverage
of citizenship, you may need to allow a
you need.
number of weeks or even months for your
host embassy or consulate to process all
the required documents.
Please see the website of the embassy or
consulate for requirements regarding vi-
sas/ residence permits.
Prior to sending your visa application and
your passport to the embassy or consulate,
make a copy of the application and any
documentation you send. Please note that
you must have a passport in order to apply
for a visa.
Tip: Bring additional passport-sized photos
for identity cards, visa applications or uni-
versity registration.
Tip: If you are studying in Europe, many of
the countries are part of the Schengen
Area, which is a group of countries that do
not require a visa to enter if your stay is less
than 90 days. A list of these countries can be
found at the links below.

7
WHILE ABROAD

You have researched the country, obtained

the required documents, bought your ticket,
and packed. Now, it is time to actually go
abroad! This chapter will address how to live
and study successfully abroad.

8
ADJUSTMENT
Jet Lag

Jet lag is a temporary sleep disorder that may cause insomnia, fa-
tigue and nausea. Of course, the jet lag experience (including recov-
ery rate) varies from person to person. Here are some suggestions
for dealing with jet lag:
• Be patient with yourself. After traveling for a long period
of time, it is not uncommon to feel exhausted, easily con-
fused, or frustrated.
• Prior to leaving, write down where you will spend the first
night and how to get there. Knowing that you have a place
to rest and how to get there will lessen the stress. There are
many different recommendations for eating before and
during your flight. Do a little research and determine what
is best for you.
• Drink as much water as possible to stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers before and
during the flight. They will only increase fatigue without
making you sleep better.
• Get up and move around during the flight and do stretch-
ing exercises.
• Upon arrival, begin to operate on local time. If you arrive
in the morning, go to your accommodation to drop off your
luggage and then do a little exploring.

9
Cultural Adaptation
Adapting to a new environment takes time,
and the pace of transition varies from per-
son to person. The typical pattern of cultural
adjustment often consists of distinct phases:
Honeymoon, Crisis, Recovery, and Adjust-
ment. Notice that this cycle is then repeated
upon re-entry to one's home country.
• Honeymoon Phase: This phase is best
described by feelings of excitement,
optimism and wonder often experi-
enced when you enter into a new envi-
ronment or culture. While differences
are observed, students are more likely
to focus on the positive aspects of the
new environment.
• Crisis Phase: This phase is often
termed as "culture shock." In general,
it is a term used to describe the anxiety
and feelings (of surprise, disorienta-
tion, confusion, etc.) felt when people
have to operate within an entirely dif-
ferent cultural or social environment. It
grows out of the difficulties in assimi-
lating the new culture, causing diffi-
culty in knowing what is appropriate
and what is not. Culture shock does not
necessarily occur suddenly but may
gradually begin to affect a person's
moods over time. The length of time a
person experiences culture shock de-
pends on how long they stay in the new
environment as well as their level of
self- awareness.
• Recovery and Adjustment Phases:
Recovering from culture shock is han-
dled differently by everyone, as we
each have our unique circumstances,
background, strengths, and weak-
nesses that need to be taken into con-
sideration. With time and patience, we
can experience positive effects of cul-
ture shock, like increased self-confi-
dence, improved self-motivation, and
cultural sensitivity. As you gradually
begin to feel more comfortable in and
adjusting to the new environment, you
will feel more like expanding your so-
cial networks and exploring new
ideas. You will feel increasingly flexi-
ble and objective about your experi-
ence, learning to accept and perhaps
practice parts of the new culture, while
holding onto your own cultural tradi-
tions.
There are a number of suggestions to ease
the transition:
• Realize that what you are going
through is normal. Be patient and give
yourself time to work through the pro-
cess.
• Keep in touch with your home coun-
try. Call or Skype home regularly.
Keep up-to-date with social media.
Watch some of your favorite TV pro-
grams.
• Take care of yourself. Eat well, exer-
cise, and get enough sleep.
• Talk to someone. Find friends who
are going though similar process. Call
your family.
• Have fun and relax! Check out local
activities and organizations. Make new
friends.
10
LIFE ABROAD
Safety

The fact of the matter is that most US citizens are safer trav-
eling overseas than in the US; however, no matter where
you go, you inevitably stand out as an outsider and a target.
The best way to avoid problems is to attempt to blend in as
much as possible. It is best to be a bit more reserved until
you have the chance to observe behavior. You should take
the same common sense safety precautions abroad that you
would at home. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your
valuables concealed, be prudent around strangers, and
heed safety advice from the local Study Abroad Office Staff
and residents.
Please review the following checklist and steps for Crisis Man-
agement as well as fill out the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).

11
 Checklist and steps:

□ 1. Copy of Passport and Visa (where applicable)

□ 2. Copy of Insurance Cards/Information

□ 3. Copy of Area Maps/Safe Routes

□ 4. Copy of Emergency Card

□ 5. Copy of Emergency Contacts

□ 6. Special Medical Needs Treatment Information (where applicable)

□ 7. Power of Attorney (where applicable)

□ 8. Copy of Home & International Drivers Licenses

□ 9. Cell phone

□ 10. Money- Local currency, US currency, ATM/Credit Card

□ 11. Sample Emergency/First Aid Kit

Flashlight, water (or purification tablets), pocket knife (not on plane), adhe-

sive bandages, elastic bandage (ace–type), antibiotic ointment, gauze pads,

first aid tape, scissors (not on plane), sun block, lip ointment, burn cream,

aspirin/pain reliever, AM/ FM radio, batteries, battery bank charger, insect

repellent, rain poncho, prescription/medication, thermal blanket.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS:

Study Abroad Office 1-931-372-3634 8:00-4:30pm

University Police 1-931-372-3234 after office hours

Title IX Coordinator 1-931-372-3112

Assistant Director- Amy Miller almiller@tntech.edu

Director of International Education- Charles Wilkerson cwilkerson@tntech.edu

12
  Steps to help you stay calm and use your EAP more effectively in an emergency:

STEP ONE Remain calm. Take a deep breath. You will need a clear head in order to focus on your next
move.

STEP TWO Assess the situation/Get Advice from Program Staff. Identify in what kind of emergency sit-
uation you find yourself. Contact program staff for advice. An emergency/crisis can be:

1. Personal: Accident/Injury, Death, Illness, Family Problem, Sexual Assault, Kidnapping,

Arrest, etc.
2. Regional: Natural/Environmental Disaster, Civil Unrest, Political Uprising, Terrorist At-
tack, War Outbreak, etc.

STEP THREE Take Action. Exercise good judgment. Follow your evacuation plan/written instructions/maps
you have developed as part of your EAP to help remove you from the emergency and get you
to a safer location where you can get help. Remember the alternate transportation options you
have available.

STEP FOUR Get in touch. Now that you are in a safer and more stable location, update others about your
situation. Using a method of communication at your disposal, get in touch with your emergency
contacts so they can help you. Have them assist you in finding what you need (medical care,
transport, a lawyer, etc.)

1. Take care of yourself. While you are waiting for your contacts to assist you, or in case you
cannot reach anyone to assist you, use your emergency kit. Take out the supplies you
need to keep yourself healthy (bandages, food, jacket, radio, etc.). You may need addi-
tional/continuing medical care and/or personal/psychological counseling.

2. Keep Trying. If you cannot get a hold of anyone to help you (because phone lines are
down, you are trapped, etc) don't give up. Try alternate methods of communication and
transportation until you are able to reach someone. If you need to move to another loca-
tion, let others know and leave a written description of where you are going.

STEP FIVE Move to a more permanent location. After you have removed yourself from any immediate
threat, regrouped at a safer location, and gotten in touch with your emergency contacts, you
may need to move to a more permanent location for treatment/assistance. Consider your trans-
portation options and get yourself to the appropriate location (hospital, police station, em-
bassy/consulate, contact's home, counseling center, etc.)

STEP SIX Stay in touch. Maintain contact and update your emergency contacts on your condition. It
would be useful to have a "communication tree" whereby your emergency contacts can collab-
orate to help you through the emergency situation (you may need to have privacy release forms
in place for this to happen).

STEP SEVEN Evaluate and revise your EAP. After the emergency is over, and once your condition has sta-
bilized, evaluate your EAP and use what you've learned to revise it in case of future emergen-
cies.

13
  Personal Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Knowing the answers to the questions found below can be a good first step in helping to keep yourself safer in an emergency by
creating a personal EAP. If you need help drawing a map, finding escape routes or writing emergency preparedness direc-
tions/steps, consider asking yourself the following series of questions. You should really try to include answers to all of these ques-
tions in your personal EAP:
Know Where to Go

Where should you go first in an emergency, and what method of transportation will you use to get there?

Be aware of all your emergency transportation options. Know the numbers for the following:

Airport: ____________________ Bus Station: ____________________

Train Station: ____________________ Metro Station: ____________________

Rent–a–Car: ____________________ Boat/Ferry/Port Authority: ____________________

Know Your Emergency Contact Information

In addition to your personal emergency contacts, we also recommend you look up/ask for the numbers for the following individu-
als and agencies nearest to your study abroad and/or travel location(s):

City or country's 911 equivalent: ____________________ Local Government/Visa office: ____________________

Consulate/Embassy: ____________________ Police: ____________________

Fire: ____________________ Hospital: ____________________

Post Office: ____________________ Translator Service: ____________________

Lawyer: ____________________ Red Cross: ____________________

24–Hour Assist/Insurance Hotline: ____________________ Other: ____________________

Who will you call first, second, third, etc. in an emergency?

1. ____________________ 2. ____________________ 3. ____________________

Do your emergency contacts have each other’s phone numbers so they can communicate and relay information about you to each
other?

What are some alternate ways of communicating with your emergency contacts?

The following are some communication options you may have available:

Phone: Home/Cell:

Email:

Internet: Skype/WhatsApp/Messenger/Viber/KakaoTalk/WeeChat/Facebook

Fax: Do all of your emergency contacts know what your wishes are in the event of your serious injury or death?
Back–up Plan/Special Conditions

If the situation does not permit you to follow the original emergency plan, what is the back–up plan (Plan B)?

Are there any other special conditions to consider which are unique to your situation (i.e. weather conditions/hazards in your re-
gion of study/travel, a personal physical handicap, poor public transportation or phone service in your area...)?

Emergency Kit/Money

Do you have emergency cash reserves, credit cards, etc. on–hand, in case you can't count on banks/ATMs, or get to a bank/ATM?

Using the emergency supplies and reserve money you have set aside, for how many days would you be able to sustain yourself,
and what would you use each day.

14
Here are general tips for staying safe
when traveling or just going out on the
town. Many of these tips are common
sense, but do not disregard them.
• Make sure someone else always
knows your itinerary.
• Keep your eyes and hands on your
bags at all times, especially when
talking on the phone or reading a
sign or train schedule. When you’re
distracted, you are an easy target for
thieves.
• Be mindful when handing your lug-
gage to anyone. Thieves often pose
as staff or drivers.
• Plan your trip so that you do not ar-
rive at an unknown town late at night
without having made prior arrange-
ments for accommodations.
• If driving, keep doors locked and
suitcases out of sight. Do not leave
valuables in cars. Thieves target
rental cars and vehicles with foreign
license plates.
• Avoid forming large groups of for-
eigners, but remember that there is
added safety in numbers. Smaller
groups attract less attention.
• Do not go anywhere with strangers
if you are alone.
• Dress to blend in with the local pop-
ulation.
• Find out which parts of town are
considered risky by the locals and
avoid those areas.
• Always stay in well-lit and well-trav-
eled places. Avoid alleys or unsafe
areas.
• Stay alert and trust your intuition
when you feel you may be in danger.
If you feel you may be getting into an
uncomfortable situation, try to get to
a safe place ASAP.
• Learn the emergency number in
your host country and use it when
needed. Use your Emergency Wallet
card.
• Do not be afraid to call attention to
yourself or ask for assistance if you
are in trouble.
• Be aware of the effects of alcohol
and drugs. These effects include im-
paired judgement and increased vi-
olent behavior.
• Never leave your drink unattended.
15
• Know your own limits and be sup-
portive of other people’s limits.
• Do not go off alone with someone
you do not know well or who makes
you feel uncomfortable. Suggest
staying with a group or going to a
public place. Do not leave friends
alone at parties, bars, or clubs.
• It is usually best to call your own cab
or have someone at your location call
one for you. Not all cabs on the street
are registered, which means they
may not be legitimate.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash
with you; instead, use a debit card or
major credit cards. (More infor-
mation about personal finances is
covered in a following section).
15
Health
While abroad, you may be exposed to un-
familiar climates, food, medicine and
health care systems. In many cases, com-
mon sense and a heathy respect for y our
own body (and its limitations) will help
you avoid medical problems.
Medical and dental checkups prior to your
departure are essential. It is also a good
idea to review your travel plans with your
physician.
Consult the US Center for Disease Control
and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) or the
World Health Organization
(www.who.int/en/) for specific infor-
mation about vaccinations that you may be
required to have before entering your
host country or countries in which you
wish to travel. Documentation of all vac-
cinations should be taken abroad and may
be required at your host university.
Here are some basic tips for all students
going abroad.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and watch
what you eat when traveling.
• Check on the safety of water, meat,
fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Know where to get treatment before
a medical problem arises.
Food and Water Safety
In areas where hygiene and sanitation are
poor, you are advised to avoid unpasteur-
ized milk and dairy products (cheese,
cream, etc.). You should also eat raw fruits
and vegetables that you have peeled.
In areas were chlorinated tap water is not
available or where hygiene and sanitation
are poor, be advised that only some liq-
uids (bottled water, canned or bottled
beverages, tea, coffee) are safe to drink.
Tip: Cook it, boil it, peel it, or forget it!
Students with dietary restrictions may find
it challenging to maintain this diet abroad.
Be prepared to find a tactful way to deal
with social situations in which you are of-
fered specially prepared meals that may
not fit your diet.
Sexual Harassment
Tennessee Tech University is committed
to providing an environment free of sexual
harassment, and this commitment extends
to our study abroad programs. The uni-
versity encourages study abroad partici-
pants to report concerns and complaints
so that prompt corrective measures can
be taken to stop sexual harassment when-
ever it occurs. Unwelcome sexual ad-
vances, requests for sexual favors and
other verbal or physical conduct of a sex-
ual nature constitute sexual harassment.
A Special Note for Women
Unfortunately, the stereotype of the “easy
and liberated” American woman is prev-
alent in many cultures. As a result of this
perception, you may unwittingly find
yourself the object of unwanted attention.
If possible, do research or ask women
from the host country about gender rela-
tions.
Try to respect the situation, but do not feel
that you have to put aside your beliefs and
embrace their cultural values.
Regulations of the Host Country
While abroad, you are subject to all rules
and regulations of the country. There is a
16
myth that the US government can automat- Drugs which are illegal in the US are also
ically get you out of jail in a foreign coun- illegal in most other countries. The pun-
try; they cannot! If you are arrested, some- ishments for illegal drug use in some
one from the US Consulate/Embassy will countries can be very strict, even life
contact you and can recommend an attor- threatening.
ney. Please note that being a US citizen is
not a “get-out-of-jail- free card.”
If you are drunk in public, you might be
arrested and put in the “drunk tank” for
the night; these are not the kind of memo-
ries you want to have about your study
abroad experience. Help dispel the stere-
otype of the American student who only
drinks to get drunk. Also, you would be-
come an easier target for thieves. It is im-
portant to protect yourself while being re-
spectful of your host country and culture.
Tip: Alcohol in other countries may be
stronger than alcohol in the US. If you
choose to drink, know your limits.

15

17
PERSONAL FINANCES

Currency Exchange

Prior to leaving, it might be useful to know the current ex-

change rate for the country you plan to visit. If possible, you
might want to have a little local currency with you upon ar-
rival. You might be able to purchase local currency at inter-
national banks or work with a local bank that has interna-
tional bank connections. Sometimes, this process can be
timely.
You can exchange cash abroad at banks, airports, rail sta-
tions, large hotels, some tourist information centers and
travel agencies. Every time you exchange money, you can
expect to pay a commission or fee. Traveler’s checks are
much more difficult to exchange abroad so we do not rec-
ommend them.
Remember to bring your passport as your personal identi-
fication every time you exchange money overseas.

18
Safety with Money abroad. Most ATMs accept only a four-
digit numerical PIN.
No matter what type of money you take
while abroad, be careful! Use extreme You will also want to tell your bank to note
caution while using public transportation on your account that you will be using
or standing in crowded areas. Pick pock- your card abroad, so they don’t block it.
eting is more common abroad, and Amer- You should also be aware of your daily
icans may seem like easier targets. withdrawal limit and have your bank ad-
just it before you depart, if necessary.
Cash
Make sure that your card will not expire
For most destinations, it is recommended while you are abroad.
that you only carry a small amount of US
Sometimes, ATM cards do not work over-
cash, in case it is lost or stolen. It can be
seas or are eaten by an ATM, so make sure
extremely helpful to obtain a small
you have other ways of obtaining money.
amount of foreign currency before depar-
ATM cards can also be difficult to replace
ture for buses, taxis, telephone calls, and
if lost or stolen. In some countries, ATMs
tips upon arrival. Check with local banks
are linked only to local banks and are not
to see if you can obtain foreign currency
part of an international network. You
before you leave. Depending on which
should also be aware that when withdraw-
currency you are seeking, it may take up
ing money from an ATM, you may not
to a week before the bank can obtain the
know the exchange rate you are receiving
foreign currency. Personal checks drawn
for your transaction. If you are planning to
from a US bank are virtually impossible to
take an ATM/debit card overseas with
cash overseas.
you, it is advisable to leave a bank ac-
ATM/Debit Cards count deposit slip at home or link your ac-
counts for transfers with family members.
ATM cards with a Cirrus or Plus designa-
tion can often be used to obtain foreign Credit Cards
currency from an ATM overseas. ATM
Most major US credit cards can be used
cards are a popular option for obtaining
worldwide and are extremely valuable in
money overseas for study abroad stu-
a financial emergency; in fact, it is advisa-
dents because they are typically available
ble to obtain a major credit card before
24 hours a day. ATM cards are advanta-
studying abroad. The most commonly ac-
geous due to low bank exchange rates
cepted credit cards are Visa and Master-
and automatic withdrawals from your
Card. Credit cards you use overseas must
checking account at home. However,
be in your own name as given on your
most banks and/or card companies may
passport. Be sure to record your credit
charge an extra fee for international trans-
card number and emergency card num-
actions. Before you go abroad, check with
bers in a separate place in case your card
your local bank to see if you can use your
is lost or stolen.
ATM card in your host country, if there are
any added fees for withdrawing money You can get a cash advance at a bank us-
overseas, and if your PIN will work ing a credit card, but you will be charged

19
interest continually until you pay your advice on how much money to take. Cal-
credit card bills. culate how much you will need and then
add some for a cushion and emergency
Typically, the amount charged to your
situations.
credit card bill is based on the exchange
rate on the day that your bank or credit Opening a Bank Account Abroad
card company processed the transaction.
If you plan to be overseas for a semester
Be aware that some banks and/or credit
or longer, you may wish to open a local
card companies may charge an extra fee
bank account in the host country, which
for international transactions, regardless
you will need to do in person once you ar-
of the name brand.
rive. This is especially helpful if you need
You will also want to call your credit card to make payments via wire transfer for
company before you depart to let them housing.
know that you will be using your card
Many banks overseas will have their own
abroad. Make sure that your card will not
bank cards, allowing you to make with-
expire while you are abroad.
drawals from their ATMS. If you plan to
How Much Money to Take open a bank account overseas, you should
have your US bank wire the funds. A per-
How much money to take depends on
sonal check or money order can take
your study abroad program, the cost of
weeks or even months to clear and will
living in your host country and your per-
delay your ability to open a bank account
sonal spending habits. Talk to former par-
quickly.
ticipants and the Study Abroad Staff for

20
Running Out of Money Abroad Identity Theft

First of all, try not to run out of money when If your credit card, social security card, checks,
you go overseas. Plan to bring enough re- etc. are stolen, you should immediately contact
sources along with you so that you will not the issuing agencies.
be caught short. In the event that you do
run out and need emergency funds, you
may have money sent to you through these
means:
• Western Union: If you have a major credit
card, you may telephone Western Union at
1-800-325-6000 or online at
www.westernun-
ion.com/us/en/home.html to receive in-
formation on how Western Union transfers
money worldwide. Western Union
charges a fee for this service based on the
amount of money sent.
• American Express MoneyGram: This is
an immediate cash transfer for American
Express members. Call the MoneyGram
Information Line at 1-800-543-4080 to find
the nearest participating office from which
money can be sent. Transactions must be
initiated at an American Express office in
the US and completed at one of its branch
offices abroad.
Sending Money Through the Mail

It is not recommended that cash or per-

sonal checks be sent via the mail service.
Money can be stolen, mail may be deliv-
ered more slowly than anticipated and US
checks are difficult, if not impossible to
cash.
If you have an ATM card, have someone
deposit funds into your account.

21
TRAVEL WHILE
ABROAD Rail Passes

Combining convenience with inexpensive rates, perhaps

the most widely used form of transportation is the railroad.
Information and applications for rail passes (Eurail, Britrail,
Japan Rail, Korean Rail, etc.) can be obtained from a student
travel organization, a travel agency or online. One site that
is recommended to explore various rail pass options is:
www.statravel.com.
Rail passes can only be purchased in the US and are the
equivalent of cash, which means they cannot be replaced if
lost or stolen. In most cases, you must purchase the pass be-
fore leaving the US.
Cheap Airline Tickets

There are many airlines that service nearby countries that

are very cheap, sometimes cheaper than the trains. One
search engine in Europe is called www.Flylc.com.

22
Bus Passes you familiarize yourself with traffic laws as
they pertain to biking.
Another option for the budget-conscious
traveler is the bus. Bus travel is often Also, be aware of traffic conditions in the
cheaper and more frequent than train city you are visiting and make an in-
travel. Check the Internet for information formed decision about the safety of bik-
about purchasing a bus pass. STA Travel ing. When biking, always wear a helmet.
(www.statravel.com) has bus passes You may take your own bike, but it will
available. count as a piece of luggage and may
quickly disappear.
Road Travel Via Motorized Vehicles
Hitchhiking Abroad
Roads in the rest of the world are often dif-
ferent from the ones in the US, as many When you hitchhike, you are putting your
other countries rely less on them. They life in the hands of someone you do not
may be narrow, have many curves, be know. This is not wise! Do not hitchhike; it
poorly maintained or must be shared with is not worth the risk!
bicycles, motorcycles, animals, carts, etc.
Vehicles may travel at speeds that exceed
what is safe.
Many travel guides (e.g., Lonely Planet,
Rick Steves, and Let’s Go) have a motor
travel section that addresses potential
problems in the country you are visiting.
The US Department of State
(www.travel.state.gov) also provides
more information about road travel.
Tip: Be aware the many countries do not
drive on the right side of the road, as we do
in the US. Even if you are not driving, use
caution when crossing the street.
Bicycling

Biking is popular in many countries, and

they are ready to accommodate the biker.
For everyday use, bicycles are available
for rent all over Europe and parts of Asia.
Train stations sometimes have bicycles
for rent that you can pick up and drop off
along your route. Check a travel guide or
the Internet to learn more about biking in
your host country. It is recommended that

23
Wow! It is hard to believe that your
study abroad experience has come to a
close. Hopefully, you are now a more
developed citizen of the world who can
now function through an alternative
perspective. This chapter will address
how to make re-entry as smooth as pos-
sible as well as how to translate your
study abroad experience into the world
of work.

24
RE-ENTRY!
Adjustment

Upon returning to your home country, you may feel

slightly disoriented or out of place; it may be similar to
what you felt when you arrived in your host country. This
is called return shock or reverse culture shock. These feel-
ings are temporary and completely normal, but being
aware of this phenomenon can help you deal with it pro-
actively. The following are a few strategies to help you
cope with these feelings:
• Download music you have been listening to abroad
and share it with people at home. Also, try cooking
them your favorite dish from your host culture.
• Consider integrating some host culture habits into
your routine at home.

25
 • Become friends with international These are valuable quantities for a poten-
students on your campus. Consider tial employer. Make sure to include your
getting in touch with other students study abroad experience on your résumé
who have studied abroad. by adding the university where you stud-
ied to the education section. In the work
• Stay in touch with friends you made
experience section, incorporate any in-
abroad. At the same time, it is im-
ternship or volunteer experiences. Also,
portant to strengthen old relation-
prepare some key stories for your inter-
ships and build new ones.
view to illustrate the intercultural compe-
• Remember that the steps you took to tencies you gained abroad.
adjust to your host culture will be use-
ful for readjusting to your home envi-
ronment. Keep busy and set goals.
Give yourself time to readjust and
keep an open mind.
• Consider ways to use what you have
gained abroad by practicing your
foreign language skills or planning
for an international career.

Study Abroad on Your Résumé

Your international experience has given
you an opportunity for personal develop-
ment, along with the chance to cultivate
your intercultural communication skills.

26